things to do

Events for Kids in Southern California

Sun

1

November 1

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November 15

San Diego,

San Diego

November 1-15: Celebrate Fleet Week San Diego with free concerts, STEM activities, ship tours, military displays, a Veterans Day 5K and boat parade, family activities, and opportunities to explore active-duty Navy and Coast Guard vessels.

Thu

5

November 5

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January 3

123 Farm at Highland Springs Ranch & Inn,

Cherry Valley

November 5 - January 3: Wander through glowing lights at 123 Farm and discover Santa visits, a Christmas Village, holiday maze, scavenger hunt, wagon rides, live music, shopping, and more.

Thu

5

November 5

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January 18

1324 5th St., Santa Monica,

Santa Monica

November 5 - January 18, 2027: Skate by the coast at Downtown Santa Monica's outdoor Frost on 5th Ice Rink, with skate lessons, special events, and festive fun throughout the season.

Fri

6

November 6

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December 30

Wild Rivers,

Irvine

November 6 - December 30: Explore more than 1,000 handcrafted light displays across Sweet Dreams, Outer Space, and Christmas Fantasy at DreamGlow Festival.

Sat

7

November 7

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January 10

Skypark at Santa’s Villiage,

Skyforest

Nov 7 – Jan 10, 2027: The entire village transforms into a Christmas wonderland with many attractions and activities, including: train ride, live entertainment, ice skating arena, Santa's House, Northwood characters, and special holiday experiences.

Mon

9

November 9

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January 3

Irvine Spectrum Center,

Irvine

Now - Jan 3: Go ice skating outdoors at Irvine Spectrum Center, with themed Thursday nights, live DJ skate sessions, and a special Skate with Santa event.

Wed

11

November 11

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December 31

Southern California Railway Museum,

Perris

November 11 - December 31: All aboard The Polar Express for hot chocolate, dancing chefs, Christmas carols, a visit from Santa, and a keepsake silver sleigh bell.

Thu

12

November 12

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January 3

Pershing Square,

Los Angeles

November 12 - January 3: Skate beneath the Downtown LA skyline at The Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square, featuring themed skate nights, DJs, Classical Sundays, and more throughout the season.

Fri

13

November 13

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November 15

TAWA Gateway,

San Gabriel

November 13-15: Enjoy three nights of food, anime artists, collectibles, shopping, live entertainment, photo ops, and more at Happy Night Market. FREE!

Fri

13

November 13

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January 6

Downtown Disney District,

Anaheim

Nov 13 - Jan 6: Enjoy a little Disney holiday magic without a park ticket with nightly snowfall, festive displays, seasonal treats, and Chip and Dale's Ornament Trail at Downtown Disney.

Fri

13

November 13

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January 3

South Coast Botanic Garden,

Palos Verdes Peninsula

November 13 - January 3: Follow Tinker Bell through an illuminated Neverland filled with glowing pathways, interactive moments, and storybook scenes at South Coast Botanic Garden.

Fri

13

November 13

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November 13

LEGO Stores,

November 13: Kids ages 6+ can build and take home a LEGO Reindeer at participating LEGO Stores while supplies last. FREE!

Fri

13

November 13

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November 13

Petersen Automotive Museum,

Los Angeles

November 13: Explore robot coding, rockets, wind tunnels, parachutes, and more during a hands-on STEM Night for families at the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Sat

14

November 14

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November 14

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens,

San Marino

November 14: Gaze at the waxing crescent Moon and earthshine through high-powered telescopes and binoculars, with a chance to glimpse the Moon illusion. Explore the science, history, and mythology of the Moon and join a green laser-guided constellation tour.

Sat

14

November 14

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January 3

Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum,

Simi Valley

November 14 - January 3: Explore 26 dazzling Christmas trees representing eras of American history, see handcrafted menorahs, and meet Santa on select dates at the Reagan Library.

Sat

14

November 14

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November 14

Wilmington Waterfront Park,

Wilmington

November 14: Run or walk in the Día de los Muertos 5K and 1K Youth Run, plus enjoy live entertainment, face painting, local vendors, altars, and more at Wilmington Waterfront Park.

Sat

14

November 14

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November 14

Beverly O’Neill Theater,

Long Beach

September 5, 2026 - November 6, 2027: A free opportunity for kid of all ages to experience the magic of theatre. These free shows are open to all. Reservations are required.

7-11-mini-toy-box

Sat

14

November 14

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November 14

Lowe’s Locations,

MyLowe’s Rewards Kids Workshops are free, hands-on DIY experiences designed just for kids. Feb 21: Birdhouse / Mar 21: Lawn Mower / Apr 18: Terrarium / May 16: Garden Basket / Jun 13: Trophy Cup / Jul 18: Mini Toy Box / Sep 12: Haunted House / Oct 17: Firefighting Plane / Nov 14: Holiday Engine / Dec 12: Holiday Trolley Car / Jan 16, 2027: Winter Play Lodge

Sat

14

November 14

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November 14

Griffith Observatory,

Los Angeles

September 19, October 17, November 14, December 19: Look at the Sun, Moon, planets, and other objects through a variety of telescopes at Griffith Observatory's free monthly star party. Volunteer astronomers are on hand to answer questions and guide viewing. FREE!

Sat

14

November 14

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November 14

Balboa Park,

San Diego

November 14: Celebrate Japanese culture and 70 years of San Diego-Yokohama friendship with taiko, Bon Odori, food, cultural performances, markets, exhibits, and family activities at Balboa Park. FREE!

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